Living as the People of God
Reflecting the Character of God
The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. … Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. (1Pet 4:7, 9-10)
You are warmly welcome! We especially warmly welcome our Assistant Bishop who will preside over the Confirmation Service today.
Reflecting the character of God may seem to be a difficult feat, but it is possible; actually, it becomes an easy seamless lifestyle when one is correctly positioned. Think about the moon which reflects the sun’s light: that that is required is the correct positioning; in seasons when we are not able to see the moon, the moon is actually there and the sun is there and we are here, but the positioning of the moon is not able to allow us to receive its reflection of the sun’s light! Therefore, positioning is very crucial. Do you want to reflect the character of God to those around you? Position yourself right.
Peter reminds his hearers how they should live in view of the imminent end of all things: to be alert and sober, and to love and serve one another. In liberating his people, God intends that they live in the peace and joy of fellowship like the one enjoyed by the Trinity. Unfortunately, some who realize they have been liberated from the law just rush to indulge their own flesh, to gratify the deceptive selfish bodily desires – hoping for satisfaction that remains elusive! In this selfishness and greed is where we find the ‘man eat man’ spirit; just look at someone indulging their flesh, and know for sure that someone somewhere is being cheated; indeed, some suffer ‘as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal’! This is not at all a reflection of God’s character.
The God who created man in His own image delights in man reflecting God’s character; it is a mandatory call that will guarantee a final destiny in God’s presence. It is actually more gratifying to obey the instructions received: to love people and to love God; it not only satisfies today, but also assures us of an eternal joy and peace in fellowship with God. As you consider how to reflect the character of God, remember that positioning is most crucial: in our case, it is all about being filled by the Holy Spirit. Just like the moon has no light of its own, you have nothing to offer to the world apart from what God has given you. “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Gal 5:25). This world is sick and dying because of those who have run away from this call. Do not be among them; instead, live as God has called you to reflect His character to those around you. God bless you all.